TDT rates have been discounted since 2009 as a result of actions taken by the Board of Commissioners (Board) in response to the recession. Earlier this year, the Board directed county staff to draft an ordinance ending TDT rate discounts and making additional TDT adjustments in fall 2014.

A-Engrossed Ordinance 793 makes three adjustments to the countywide TDT. These changes become effective October 1, 2014. The ordinance:

Ends the temporary 20 percent discount on TDT rates on September 30, 2014. The higher TDT rates take effect on October 1, 2014.

Adjusts the way TDT is assessed for applicants who obtain building permits and defer TDT payment until building occupancy. In those cases, applicants will now be allowed to pay the TDT rate in effect at the time the building permit is issued rather than the rate in effect at the time of occupancy.

Makes permanent the change-in-use discount enacted through Ordinance No. 751 in 2012. This discount is for previously occupied buildings changing to certain commercial and industrial uses. Space eligible for the discount is capped at 5,000 square feet and discounts can be as high as 75 percent.

TDT Background:

The Washington County Transportation Development Tax is levied countywide including within cities. Revenue generated by the TDT is dedicated to transportation capacity improvements designed to accommodate growth. Eligible projects are on major roads, including sidewalks and bike lanes, as well as transit capital projects (such as bus shelters).

Washington County is committed to protecting the uses of the land and to building and maintaining a great transportation system - balancing care for the natural environment, economic development, safety and community livability.